Snuffbox

Media - 1929.8.554.2 - SAAM-1929.8.554.2_1 - 61197
Copied Unidentified, Snuffbox, 1780-1800, enamel and gilded metal, height: 78 in. (2.2 cm), Smithsonian American Art Museum, Gift of John Gellatly, 1929.8.554.2
Free to use

Artwork Details

Title
Snuffbox
Artist
Unidentified
Date
1780-1800
Dimensions
height: 78 in. (2.2 cm)
Credit Line
Gift of John Gellatly
Mediums Description
enamel and gilded metal
Classifications
Keywords
  • Figure group
  • Architecture — bridge
  • Object — flower
  • Architecture Exterior — religious — church
  • Landscape — river — stream
Object Number
1929.8.554.2

Artwork Description

The art of painting on enamel flourished in England during the second half of the eighteenth century. A French jeweler, Jean Toutin, had developed a new technique for painting on enamel, in which a gold base was covered first with white enamel, then painted with a design. This craft soon spread to England, where it was adopted by jewelers and goldsmiths. Their intricately painted boxes and curios were fashionable with the wealthy, who often bought them as souvenirs from their travels. Popular items included small boxes, which were used to carry snuff or “patches” (beauty spots); bonbonnieres, which contained sweets; and etuis, which might carry a lady’s scissors, tweezers, or pencil. More functional items were also popular, including watches, candlesticks, and tea caddies.